ACMA targets PC virus telemarketers

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced that it is ramping up its fight against telemarketers who try to convince customers that their computers are infected by viruses and then charge a fee for removal.

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has announced that it is ramping up its fight against telemarketers who try to convince customers that their computers are infected by viruses and then charge a fee for removal.

"The ACMA understands that while some businesses offer a legitimate virus prevention or removal service, many are falsely claiming to be related to reputable companies, such as Microsoft," said ACMA's chairman, Chris Chapman.

"In the first three months of 2011, nearly half of all complaints about telemarketing calls made to numbers on the Do Not Call Register have been about these types of calls."

The ACMA is embarking on a targeted compliance campaign aimed at these businesses. Companies that are investigated by the ACMA run the risk of incurring a penalty of up to $110,000 per day.

The ACMA will also be working with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, cooperating with international regulators and voice over internet protocol providers to identify rogue telemarketers.

The Do Not Call Register is a free federal government service where Australians can register their numbers to opt out of telemarketing calls.